A research study carried out in Japan has revealed that flossing could save your life.

Researchers at Hiroshima University have discovered that tooth loss is linked to a higher risk of strokes; the findings of the study show that people with fewer than 24 of their own teeth have a 60 percent higher chance of having a stroke.

Strokes are caused by a disruption in the blood supply to the brain; they develop very quickly and can have very serious long-term effects; strokes can also be fatal. It is estimated that around 53,000 people die from strokes every year in the UK.

Researchers at Hiroshima University examined the dental conditions of 358 patients and discovered that there was a strong link between tooth loss and an increased risk of strokes. Stroke patients in their 50’s and 60’s had fewer natural teeth than patients who had been treated for other health conditions; the study also showed that stroke patients in their 50’s had significantly fewer teeth than the average person in their 50’s.

The research team analysed the findings of four different studies; Dr Mitsuyoshi Yoshida, the lead researcher, said that the study revealed a strong link between tooth loss and strokes. The results of the study show that people with fewer than 24 teeth are 57 percent more likely to have a stroke than people with 25 or more of their own teeth.

Numerous studies have now linked tooth loss and poor oral health to an increased risk of serious health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, as well as strokes. Dentists and public health figures are very eager to convey this information to members of the public and encourage them to keep an eye on their oral health; brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating a healthy diet and visiting a dentist on a regular basis could help to save lives.